Trust Paul Thomas Anderson to retain a sense of mystery, even as he gives up some information. The writer/director is in post-production on his new film The Master, which stars Philip Seymour Hoffman as the ultimate self-starter, a man who creates his own religion. We know that actors like Joaquin Phoenix, Amy Adams, and Laura Dern are in the movie.

We also know that Mihai Malaimare Jr. (Tetro and Twixt Now and Sunrise) worked with PTA to shoot the film on 65mm. Now Anderson has offered up a photo of a scrap of that 65mm negative. Small as it may be, once the image is inverted and color-corrected, this is our first real look at Hoffman in the film.

CJ –good evening. it’s been so longand you’ve been so patient, thoughti’d fill you in on where we’reat with it now: These shots include our lovelyNegative Cutter, Simone, importedall the way from France to cut 65mmnegative. She does it all with a pairof scissors from Staples. I’ll have more to share in thecoming days/weeks/months. Hopeyou’re well. Thank you for all the support. See you soon.paul.

The Weinstein Company will openThe Master on October 12 of this year. In the meantime, check out this slight first look: